Under the guidance of winemaker, David Schlottman, Napa Ridge, part of the Beringer family of vineyards, is turning out amazing wines for low to modest prices. Current and up-coming releases are all exciting. Readers should recognize that some of the Reserve and single-vineyard wines are made in more limited quantities than the standard cuvees. The 1993 Cabernet Sauvignon Oak Barrel Central Coast could easily pass for a mid-level St.-Julien/Pauillac. The attractive, moderately intense nose of tobacco and weedy, blackcurrant fruit is followed by a ripe, silky-textured wine with plenty of fruit. Its dark color and overall balance suggest it should be drunk over the next 4-5 years. Tel. (707) 963-7115; Fax (707) 963-5054 (Beringer)

The delicious, supple 1991 Cabernet Sauvignon Oak Barrel offers attractive cherry, herb, and spicy scents, medium-bodied, round flavors with soft tannin, and adequate acidity. It is a juicy style of Cabernet Sauvignon meant to be enjoyed by the masses. Drink it over the next 3-4 years. It is time to get on the Napa Ridge bandwagon as this winery (part of the Beringer empire) is turning out delicious, fairly priced wines.